SNAP Payments Set to Expire for Tens of Millions During Ongoing Government Closure
Federal agriculture authorities stated on Saturday that SNAP funds under one of the country’s largest support systems won't be issued in November amid the persistent federal closure.
Impasse Persists Into 25th Day
The funding lapse had reached three and a half weeks at the time of the statement, coming after demands from hundreds of Congressional Democrats asking the USDA to access reserve accounts to fund next month's benefits.
“The reality is, resources are exhausted,” the department confirmed. “At this time, assistance will not be provided” starting next month.
Widespread Impact
Over 40 million Americans rely on the regular assistance, as reported by federal data. Various areas, like New Mexico, dependence on this assistance reaches 21% of residents.
A memo obtained by journalists showed that the department chose not to tap emergency reserves for November food benefits.
Partisan Impasse
Lawmakers from both parties continue to disagree about the way to support and resume federal agencies.
Remarks from the leader of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities suggested that federal leadership could have acted to act sooner to avoid interruption in payments.
“They had the ability and responsibility made moves weeks ago to get ready to use these funds,” the remarks concluded. “Instead, it may choose not to use them in an effort to gain political advantage” while GOP lawmakers attempt to pressure Senate Democrats to support a spending bill that would reopen government operations.
Local Responses
Executives in Louisiana and Virginia activated emergency protocols this week to make money available to combat potential hunger in anticipation of food benefits expiring during the upcoming period.
